Top 5 Reasons to Visit Hunterdon County for St Patrick’s Day

If you’re looking for a fun way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this year, consider heading to Hunterdon County, NJ! Hunterdon County, located in the picturesque western region of New Jersey, is an excellent destination to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. From the lush greenery to the historic architecture, the county has a lot to offer. Here are some things to do in Hunterdon County during St. Patrick’s Day.

1. Attend the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Clinton!  This is a full weekend of events. 

On Saturday, March 11th, is the Run O’ the Mill 5K. This kicks off at 8 am and is followed by the Family Fun Irish-Spring Event!  Music, Irish themed food and snacks, Shamrock Hunt, Irish Step Dance lessons and a guest appearance by the World’s Largest Leprechaun!

On Sunday, March 12th, the small town of Clinton will come alive with the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The parade will feature bagpipers, marching bands, and floats, all decorated in green, of course. This family-friendly event is an excellent way to celebrate the holiday and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Hunterdon County.  Following the parade, the celebration continues at the Red Mill.  The Friendly Sons of St Patrick will be hosting an After Party, which features live music, traditional Irish fare, and a beer garden.

2. St Patrick’s Day Food and Drink: 

If you’re a foodie or beer enthusiast, Hunterdon County won’t disappoint! Hunterdon County has several Irish pubs that are sure to get you into the St. Patrick’s Day spirit. From traditional Irish fare to green beer, these pubs are the perfect place to celebrate with friends and family. Cryan’s Tavern, voted best Irish pub in Hunterdon County.  They have live music, bagpipers, Irish Step Dances, contests and specials running the whole month of March.  Don’t forget to stop in for your personalized Guinness glass!  Other great options include The Pattenburg House in Union Township, known for its live music and extensive beer selection. Many local restaurants and bars offer special St. Patrick’s Day menus featuring traditional Irish dishes like corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, and Irish soda bread.  For your sweet tooth stop by Just Chill for your Green Mint Shakes.

Visit the local Breweries on the Hunterdon Beer Trail!  Here you can find seasonal beers like Irish red ale and stout.  Readington Brewery will have traditional Irish beers on tap all day. Enough choices to have an Irish flight! Right next door, the Readington Hop Farm will have Tia B’s Tacos serving corned beef tacos. There will also be Bagpipes playing in the brewery from 7-9pm  

3. Outdoor Activities to Celebrate St Patrick’s Day:

If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, Hunterdon County has plenty of options. Hunterdon County is known for its scenic beauty, with several parks and trails to explore. Take a hike at the Hunterdon County Arboretum or the Columbia Trail, both offering stunning views of the countryside. You can also take a bike ride. Visit Bike Hunterdon for several ideas. The county is home to several parks and nature preserves that offer hiking, biking, and birdwatching opportunities.  You can also explore the county’s historic landmarks and charming small towns, which are perfect for a leisurely stroll.

4. Shopping:

Hunterdon County is home to several unique shops and boutiques, which offer a variety of products ranging from handmade crafts to antiques. Read more about these stops here: Your Guide to Thrifting in Hunterdon or visit Hunterdon Main Streets to find your ideal destination. You can also check out local farmers’ markets, which offer fresh produce and artisanal goods.  Check out Hunterdon 579 Trail for the list of farm stands and markets to visit!

5. Historic Sites:

Hunterdon County is home to several historic sites, including the Hunterdon Art Museum, Red Mill Museum Village, and the Prallsville Mills. Take a tour of these sites to learn more about the history of the area and enjoy the beautiful architecture.

Hunterdon County, located in the picturesque western region of New Jersey, is an excellent destination to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. From the lush greenery to the historic architecture, the county has a lot to offer. Come visit us today!